General Tips

Take note of emergency/pay phones near where you have parked in case you need to use them.

Do not leave valuable items visible in your car.

Always roll up all windows and lock all doors before leaving your vehicle.

Before Entering Your Vehicle

Walk with others to your vehicle whenever possible.

If someone looks suspicious, leave the area immediately, do not try to go to your vehicle. Contact UCPD 642-6760

Carry vehicle key on separate ring from house keys

Have your keys in hand when you approach your vehicle.

Look around and underneath your vehicle before approaching.

Check the back seat of your vehicle before entering.

Upon entering your vehicle immediately lock all doors.

Make a copy of your registration and keep it on your person. Then remove all forms of identification from your vehicle. Anyone with permission to drive your vehicle should also have a copy on their person to furnish to police if necessary.

While Driving

If you are involved in a minor collision in an isolated area, you may want to drive to a well lit and populated area before stopping to assess your damage.

Never pick up hitchhikers or troubled motorists. If you want to help a troubled motorist, drive to the nearest phone and call police.

While driving, if you notice that you are being followed, do not go home. Drive to the nearest police station, open store, or service station for help. If you are fearful of exiting your vehicle, blow your horn to draw attention to yourself.

Report all attempted vehicle thefts to the University Police (if on campus) at 642-6760 or your local police department. This information will assist police in catching the suspects before they make another attempt.

If You Are Approached For Your Vehicle (Carjacking)

While this is a highly personal decision, we strongly recommend that you give up your keys immediately, and without protest. Avoid getting into the vehicle with the suspects if at all possible. If you do have to surrender your vehicle note the following: